Troops of the 3 Division of the Nigerian Army, under the Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE (JTF OPEP), have neutralised five bandits during a sustained offensive operation in Plateau State.
According to the Acting Media Information Officer, JTF Operation ENDURING PEACE, Captain Joshua John, the operation was conducted as part of the ongoing Operation PEACE SHIELD aimed at denying bandits and other criminal elements freedom of action within the Joint Operations Area (JOA).
He said the troops carried out an intelligence-led ambush in the early hours of January 1, 2026, after bandits were observed mobilising from Dutsen Zaki towards the Odare Forest in Wase Local Government Area with the intention of attacking adjoining communities.
Captain John disclosed that during the ensuing firefight, five bandits were neutralised, while others fled the scene. Items recovered from the bandits included two AK-47 rifle magazines containing 11 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition, two machetes and one knife.
He added that troops are currently pursuing the fleeing bandits to prevent regrouping and further attacks in the area.
The General Officer Commanding 3 Division Nigerian Army and Commander, Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE, Major General EF Oyinlola, reassured law-abiding residents of Plateau State and other areas of responsibility of the military’s continued commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
Major General Oyinlola also urged the public to continue providing credible and timely information to security agencies, thereby supporting ongoing security operations.
The military further warned criminal elements operating within the Joint Operations Area to desist from all forms of criminal activities or face decisive military action, stressing that troops remain vigilant and fully prepared to respond to any threat to peace and stability in Plateau State.
